The short answer
A Solana mint on its own has only supply, decimals and authorities. Its metadata adds the name, ticker (symbol) and a link (URI) to a JSON file that holds the logo, description and social links. Wallets, explorers and DEX screens read this to show your token; without it, a token shows as Unknown.
Where it is stored
| SPL token | Token-2022 token | |
|---|---|---|
| On-chain record | Separate Metaplex Token Metadata account | Metadata extension inside the mint |
| Program | Metaplex Token Metadata metaqbxxUerdq28cj1RbAWkYQm3ybzjb6a8bt518x1s | Token-2022 |
| Cost to create | About 0.0037 SOL rent plus a 0.01 SOL Metaplex fee | A little more mint rent, no extra fee |
| Who can change it | The update authority | The update authority |
The on-chain record holds the name (up to 32 characters on Metaplex), the symbol (up to 10) and the URI. The URI points to a JSON file, usually on Arweave or IPFS, with the image link, description and extras such as website and X links.
Update authority
Whoever holds the update authority can change the name, ticker and logo. Revoking it makes the metadata permanent, which buyers see as a trust signal. See how to update token metadata and logo and mint, freeze and update authority.
Where it goes wrong
- The JSON host goes offline. A logo on a server that disappears leaves the token without an image. Arweave is permanent; IPFS needs pinning.
- Wallet caches. A new or changed logo can take time to appear, see token shows Unknown or no logo.
- Copycat metadata. Anyone can create a token with the same name and logo. Only the mint address identifies a token, see what a mint address is.
How we checked
Field limits from the Metaplex Token Metadata program; costs simulated on Solana mainnet on 3 November 2026.